Fender Stu Hamm Urge II bass

Feel the urge...again

Fender hit a real bulls-eye with the first Stu Hamm Urge bass, so much so that the company is now issuing an updated version, the Fender Stu Hamm Urge II (now there's an inventive name).

This new model features a Hopshot Drop-D tuner. Designed by Stu Hamm, the Urge II also features two custom noiseless Jazz Bass pickups and one custom Precision pickup, a six-bolt neck with custom heel, and a sleek body that's all Stu -- the bass that is; Stu's actual body is quite different, although some people might describe it as "sleek."

The bass body is made from alder, and the maple neck is an asymmetrical oval shape. The rosewood fingerboard has a radius of 9.5 inches. Controls include master volume, pan pot, and 3-band active EQ. Chrome hardware, 4-ply pickguard, the works. Fender even throws in a vintage tweed case, strap, cable, and Meguiar's Mist and Wipe Kit -- that's what we're talkin' about. Assorted colors are available.

We think we should respond to the Urge and give it a test run. Be looking for a review soon. The list price is $2,449.99US. For more information, visit the official Fender website.